Five Important Lessons I’ve Learned as the Head of an Independent Boarding School

1) The best independent schools are professional learning communities that both empower and support A vibrant learning community is one where students and teachers alike are learning in and out of the classroom. Especially important, is that teachers and staff are engaged in their own professional growth and development. It is difficult to imagine a more dedicated, committed, passionate group of teachers and staff than those at Lakefield College School—who are just so clear in their love, enthusiasm and passion for the school and for Lakefield to do well. As an independent school, it’s important to nurture an environment in which teachers and staff are able to take responsibility for their own learning, both as individuals and as a group of professionals. Providing opportunities for professionals to pursue enrichment activities in their learning requires a larger group commitment and a level of institutional commitment to ensure teachers and staff members…

Read moreFive Important Lessons I’ve Learned as the Head of an Independent Boarding School

Students find meaning in innovative cross – collaborative learning project

At Lakefield College School, students of history and the performing arts have been participating in a new collaborative learning project that culminated in an authentic and moving Remembrance Day ceremony for an audience of more than 500 students, staff, former LCS alumni ‘Old Boys’ and the Lakefield community. The hour-long ceremony took more than two months of preparation and involved over 70 students from Grades 9 to 12. Part of an experiential learning process, students were involved in every aspect of the service, bringing to life the personal stories of LCS alumni veterans who served in WWI, from researching and writing the scripts and performing theatrical plateaus and poetry based on original letters, photos and other information found in the school’s archives, to creating original videos and interpretive dance pieces choreographed with live musical performances. Students created original videos honouring the contributions of LCS Old Boys and Masters such as…

Read moreStudents find meaning in innovative cross – collaborative learning project

3 Reasons to Try Drama and Dance at an Independent High School

While arts education has sadly been cut from some school curriculums, it is flourishing in others and is recognized for its significant developmental value in everything that schools should be nurturing. Research suggests that education in the arts improves general academic performance, comprehension and communication skills, social and emotional development, and cognitive ability. For a school like Lakefield College School (LCS), which challenges and enables students to reach their full potential in mind, body and spirit, the cocurricular arts program plays a central role. For example, the confidence and creative stimulation developed through artistic dance and the dramatic arts in school serves students in whichever path they choose to pursue throughout their lives. LCS develops and presents a dance showcase and two major drama productions each year in which students are heavily involved in all aspects. Any student may audition for the plays in fall and spring terms. Many acquire…

Read more3 Reasons to Try Drama and Dance at an Independent High School